ESSENCE Poll: What Advice Would You Give New Graduates?

Ah, graduation; that joyous time when you leave your youth behind and enter adulthood (cue Jaws music). You've worked hard to get here, and kudos to you. You're about to learn how to really live on your own—no more campus meal plans or dorms—and enter a highly competitive workforce. That said, you could use a little advice from the rest of us oldies.

Below are some nuggets of advice doled out by President Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey to college grads.

President Barack Obama speaking to graduates at Barnard College: "Don’t just get involved: fight for your seat at the table. Better yet, fight for your seat at the head of the table."

First Lady Michelle Obama speaking to graduates at UC Merced: “You will face tough times. You will certainly have doubts, and let me tell you because I know I did when I was your age,” said the First Lady. “Remember that you are blessed. Remember that in exchange for those blessings, you must give something back. You must reach back and pull someone up."

Oprah Winfrey speakingto graduates at Spelman College: "You must have some vision for your life. Even if you don't know the plan, you have to have a direction in which you choose to go."

So tell us: what advice would you give to a new college graduate? Share your thoughts and comments below.

QUESTION:

What advice would you give to new graduates?

Choices

Don't stress, you will find a job.

Network, network, network!

Be prepared: Your first job won't necessarily be your dream job

Be humble and stay focused on your goals.

Don't act a fool on social media—you never know who's watching.

Think for yourself. Don't make major decisions based on your current relationship.